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The Suits of Summer (part 2)

I get asked a lot this time of year, “What fabric can I wear that will keep me cool and comfortable, but will also keep a press and still look good all day long?” Linen and cotton will keep you cool, but they won’t keep a press and are a step too casual for many business environments. So what’s the answer?

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The Suits of Summer (Part 1)

At least some of the wool suits that you’ve been wearing through the winter and early spring may need to be re-labeled “oppressive” if you choose to wear them when the temperature approaches (or god forbid exceeds) triple digits, especially if you add in a good measure of humidity. I realize that you probably spend a majority of your time in temperature-controlled environments, but a change in the weather suggests a change of your wardrobe.

Specifically what that change may entail would depend on how sharply and crisply turned out you want to be, the level of respectability to which you aspire, and what your work environment and personal style will allow. On the more relaxed end of the spectrum, clothing made from linen, cotton, and seersucker are popular warm-weather options.

Linen

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(That is, until you read this!)

Men who wear ties given to them by their children (bless their good intentions!) are doomed to wearing bad ties – ties that are vulgar, distracting, and sartorially, if not socially, offensive. OK, you may be the one, rare exception to that rule. But the rule is that ties which are given as gifts (whether by children or most anyone else) exhibit more whimsy than elegance, more flash than dance.

I’m not saying that you shouldn’t want a new tie or two somewhere around the middle of June. Of course you should. That is an excellent time to be adding some new classic or seasonal neckwear to your repertoire of wardrobe accessories. I’m just saying that you should be choosy and particular about what those new ties look like and of what materials and how they are made. On that note, here are three to suggest to anyone who may be inclined to gift you with a tie.

A LOOK INTO THE LIFE AND CLOSET OF A TOM JAMES CLIENT

When they met in 2006, Rhett told Matt that if he could make him clothes that fit and style them to his personal taste and current fashion, then he would have a happy client for life. Matt told me, “I’m happy to say that we have been able to consistently do all of that.” Matt also mentioned that if you ever get invited to Mr. McSweeney’s St. Patrick’s Day party at the Mansion, you should clear your schedule and plan to attend.